Volkswagen of America has announced fuel economy figures for the 2017 e-Golf. Compared to its predecessor, the new e-Golf offers an improved EPA-estimated range and fuel economy, as well as more power.
For 2017, Volkswagen is using a new lithium-ion battery with an increased energy capacity of 35.8 kWh from 24.2 kWh. The new battery helps increase the vehicle’s range from an EPA-estimated total range of 83 miles to 125 miles on a single charge.
The 7.2 kW on-board charger is now standard on both SE and SEL Premium trims, which enables the battery to be charged in less than six hours at a 240V charging station. When equipped with DC Fast Charging (optional on SE, standard on SEL Premium), the battery can be charged to 80 percent within an hour at a DC fast charging station.
Improved battery chemistry also helps improve the overall fuel economy of the 2017 e-Golf. For city driving, the EPA estimated fuel economy is 126 MPGe; highway driving is rated at 111 MPGe, and combined city/ highway at 119 MPGe, improved over the 2016 EPA estimates of 126, 105 and 116, respectively. The 2017 e-Golf EPA estimates are the best in the Compact Class, as defined by the EPA.
The electric motor on the 2017 e-Golf has been upgraded as well. Where the 2016 e-Golf utilized an 85 kWh electric motor developing 115 horsepower, the new 100 kWh electric motor develops 134 horsepower. At the same time, the maximum torque of the electric motor has been boosted from 199 pound-feet to 214 lb-ft. The 2017 e-Golf runs zero to 60 mph faster than its predecessor—now in just 9.6 seconds—and its top speed increases to 93 mph.
In addition to these engineering improvements, the 2017 e-Golf is wallet friendly. Using 13 cents per kilowatt-hour, the EPA has estimated an annual fuel cost of just $550.
The 2017 e-Golf goes on sale this spring. Pricing will be announced closer to market introduction.
